Luxury Cars: Being the first four-seat convertible to bear the Maserati trident in the company’s epic 98-year history, it was a pretty high priority that this one turns heads for all the right reasons. Mission accomplished. The Maserati GranTurismo Convertible is getting second looks from drivers who demand the ultimate in style, performance, and quality. The overall package is quite impressive, as the GT’s appeal is attracting both men and women of discerning tastes.

Perhaps the greatest feature of the GranTurismo is its balance. It goes beyond having an ideal weight balance, which is attributable to a front mid-engine position. Four full-size adults being able to ride comfortably in a car that accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds with a top speed of 176 mph is an intelligently designed machine. It is mind-boggling that a driver and up to three passengers can thoroughly enjoy it without compromising on performance or comfort. That is balance.

While it is likely no passenger could derive the exact level of joy as the driver of a GranTurismo Convertible, there is a lot to enjoy about this automobile from all four seats. The design by Pininfarina radiates excellence inside and out. The rich Poltrona Frau leather interior is offered in 10 colors with carpet, contrasting stitching, and six interior trims. The three-layered soft top is available in six colors. Additionally, when the soft top is closed, its profile is identical to the GranTurismo Coupe.

There are so many goodies in Maserati’s inaugural entry into the high-end GT market, such as the Bose 12-speaker system with Surround Sound and the various custom interior options, it is possible one may overlook its Ferrari-designed 433-horsepower V8 engine and a six-speed ZF automatic transmission that shifts it so seamlessly. Honestly, that is highly unlikely, but it provides insight on the car’s ubiquitous magnetism.

The tone of the exhaust note is music to the ears, with the revving of the engine a crescendo that heightens expectations tenfold. For further enhancement, there is a sport button that unleashes a dual-path sport exhaust system.

The Maserati GT covers a quarter mile in 13.2 seconds with great stability and smoothness due to its extra long wheelbase and adaptive suspension system. A racing-styled flat aluminum under tray keeps it light on its tires and provides exceptional aerodynamics. The front mid-engine placement gives the car near even weight distribution.

This is a deluxe vehicle that is as distinguished as its owners. It announces your arrival whether you are coming or going. It is an open-air performance for four. Visit Maserati.us for more information on the GranTurismo Convertible.